January 15, 2013

Winfrey/Armstrong Interview: Material for mutual comebacks

According to the AP source, Lance Armstrong did "come clean" in his interview with Oprah Winfrey on OWN. Only time will tell what the legal implications will be for Armstrong.

However, those who understand reputation management know that this interview represents the continuation of Winfrey's comeback. Her OWN, after floundering, has been picking up in ratings. Also, she has put together a post-"Oprah" identity. This interview puts her in a new more sophisticated category - the Barbara Walters kind.

Armstrong has taken the initial step on a journey to who knows where. He could take on the role of activist who labors tirelessly to bring back ethics and integrity to sports like cycling. Or he can become an entrepreneur in a line of business which has nothing to do with sports. Obviously he has plans. Otherwise he wouldn't have embarked on this tactic.

going to invest in. My one concern is if transitioning the vehicle to a hybrid system compromises the mechanical integrity of the vehicle. I think what we'll do is convert one vehicle and see for a few months how it